Marine Engine Mechanic - Port Operations

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Tools provided

Safety equipment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Marine Engine Mechanic to join our client’s essential operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This hands-on role focuses on maintenance, repair and overhaul of large diesel engines and related systems for a diverse fleet, ensuring vessels operate safely and reliably.

You will read manuals, use diagnostic tools, weld as needed, and collaborate with captains and port authorities to coordinate maintenance schedules.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Marine Engine Mechanic or similar mechanical role focusing on large diesel engines.
• Strong knowledge of marine diesel engine systems, including propulsion and auxiliaries.
• Ability to read and interpret manuals, schematics and blueprints.
• Proficiency using diagnostic tools and precision measuring equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs on marine diesel engines, generators, and related equipment.
• Diagnose mechanical issues and identify root causes of engine malfunctions.
• Conduct major engine overhauls and rebuilds according to manufacturer specifications.
• Install and commission new engine systems and components.
• Troubleshoot and repair fuel, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems.
• Ensure maintenance work complies with maritime regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain logs of work performed, parts used, and engine performance data.
• Operate workshop tools safely and efficiently.
• Collaborate with captains, engineers, and port authorities to coordinate schedules.
• Respond to urgent repair requests with minimal vessel disruption.

Skills

Marine engine systems

Diagnostics tools

Read blueprints

Education

Marine Engineering certificate

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Welding equipment

Precision measuring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the maritime services industry, is seeking a skilled Marine Engine Mechanic to join their essential operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This hands-on role involves the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of marine engines and related systems for a diverse fleet. You will be crucial in ensuring the operational readiness and safety of vessels operating in and out of the Richards Bay port. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience with various types of marine diesel engines, a strong mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to high-quality workmanship. This is a demanding role that requires precision, efficiency, and a deep understanding of maritime mechanics. Working within the dynamic port environment of KwaZulu-Natal, you will contribute directly to the smooth functioning of maritime logistics. We are looking for a reliable, safety-conscious individual who can work effectively both independently and as part of a dedicated marine engineering team. This position offers the chance to work with significant marine machinery and contribute to a vital sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs on marine diesel engines, generators, and associated equipment.
• Diagnose mechanical issues and identify root causes of engine malfunctions.
• Conduct major engine overhauls and rebuilds according to manufacturer specifications.
• Install and commission new engine systems and components.
• Troubleshoot and repair fuel, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems.
• Ensure all maintenance and repair work complies with maritime regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain accurate logs of all work performed, parts used, and engine performance data.
• Operate workshop tools and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Collaborate with ship captains, engineers, and port authorities to coordinate maintenance schedules and repairs.
• Respond to urgent repair requests and ensure minimal disruption to vessel schedules.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Marine Engine Mechanic or in a similar mechanical role with a focus on large diesel engines.
• Strong knowledge of marine diesel engine systems, including propulsion and auxiliary engines.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools and precision measuring equipment.
• Experience with welding and fabrication is a plus.
• Knowledge of maritime safety regulations and procedures.
• Willingness to work in a port environment, including potentially challenging weather conditions.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including standby duties and weekends, as required by vessel schedules.
• A relevant trade qualification (e.g., Marine Engineering certificate) is highly desirable.
• Physical fitness and ability to work in confined spaces and at heights.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for overtime pay.
• Exposure to a wide variety of marine engine technologies.
• Medical aid scheme.
• Pension fund.
• Provision of necessary tools and safety equipment.
• Opportunity to work in a critical industrial sector.